Two of Tunisia’s top clubs are already separating themselves from the rest of Group A in the opening stage of the 2022-23 Tunisia Ligue 1 Professionnelle following Saturday’s results. Reigning champions Espérance ST defeated US Tataouine 3-0 with two goals from star midfielder Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane. The Tunisia national team member struck from close range in the 37th minute and converted a penalty kick four minutes later to put the Blood and Gold well on their way to three points before Sabir Bougrine fired in a goal soon after halftime.
Following their recent struggles and failure to qualify for CAF interclub competition last season, Étoile du Sahel are showing positive signs while using younger players to rebuild. The Star flew out of the halftime break and showed their quality against CS Chebba, winning 3-0 after a scoreless first half. Louay Ben Hassine volleyed in a cross to put the hosts up in the 47th minute for his first goal since joining from Tataouine. Talented Algerian forward Zinedine Boutmene unleashed a stunning strike from distance before the hour mark and 19-year-old Tunisia youth national team attacker Mohamed Dhaoui completed the scoring by tapping in a cross for an easy finish in the 67th minute.
Highlights from both of Saturday’s games are below. ESS are top of Group A with ten points from four games and rivals EST are a point behind with three games played. The top four sides in each of the two groups will qualify for the final playoff round.
Scores
Espérance ST 3-0 US Tataouine
Étoile du Sahel 3-0 CS Chebba
Highlights
Espérance ST 3-0 US Tataouine
Étoile du Sahel 3-0 CS Chebba